How does rainwater management relate to SS credits?

• A. It reduces stormwater runoff and supports water-based ecosystem services on-site
• B. It increases stormwater runoff
• C. It has no impact on site hydrology
• D. It only affects irrigation scheduling

Answer: (A)

Rainwater management on Sustainable Sites credits focuses on shaping the site’s hydrology so rainfall is treated on-site rather than rushing away as runoff. By capturing, infiltrating, evaporating, or reusing rainwater—through features like bioswales, rain gardens, detention basins, green roofs, or rainwater harvesting—you reduce the volume and speed of stormwater leaving the site and can improve water quality. This directly supports the on-site water-based ecosystem services and helps protect downstream resources. That’s why the best choice is that rainwater management reduces stormwater runoff and supports water-based ecosystem services on-site. The other options don’t fit because increasing runoff, having no impact on site hydrology, or limiting effects to irrigation scheduling do not reflect the broader goals of SS credits.